OUR STORY
For over 66 years, Rauch's Jewelry has been more than a store—it's a cornerstone of Newton, Illinois, weaving generations of family dedication, craftsmanship, and community heart into every piece of jewelry we create and repair.
Humble Beginnings on the Town Square
In 1960, Korean War veteran Arthur "Art" Rauch and his wife Barbara turned a dream into reality by purchasing a historic jewelry store on the southwest corner of Newton’s quaint town square on July 20, 1960. The building itself tells a story: Constructed in 1922 by Hathaway P. Lollar around a massive bank vault from 1912, it features unique glass blocks sourced from Indiana during World War II brick shortages. Art, a Purple Heart and Bronze Star recipient who overcame severe shrapnel wounds, discovered his passion for horology during recovery. He earned his degree from Bradley University, honed his skills repairing watches at Patrick Air Force Base in Florida, and returned home to build a legacy.
"Bricks weren’t readily available during the war, so glass blocks were used. My father used to tell the story of Mr. Lollar driving his car to Indiana to purchase them—several trips were needed. And this building still stands here today."
— June Rauch Bierman, Owner
Art and Barbara raised eight children while transforming the store from its original offerings—watch repairs, hearing aids, eyeglasses, and musical instruments—into a haven for fine jewelry, bridal collections, and custom designs. Their unwavering commitment to quality forged lifelong vendor relationships with trusted names like Stuller, Berco, and Black Hills Gold—partnerships that endure today.
A Family Legacy Across Generations
Growing up in the back of the store, the Rauch children were immersed in the business from day one. Today, second-generation owner June Rauch Bierman, the youngest of the eight, carries the torch with pride. After managing the store seasonally in the 1990s, raising a family, and even working as a realtor, June returned full-time following Barbara's passing in 2015 and Art's retirement after 57 years.
Supported by siblings—Denna, Bruce, Jennie, Carol, Pame, Lisa, and Alan—June has breathed new life into Rauch's. Brothers Alan and Bruce led renovations, including rewiring, HVAC upgrades, and fresh lighting. Nieces and in-laws join jewelry shows to select treasures, while June's son Jake and niece Maddy (pursuing her GIA certification and business degree) signal a bright third generation.
"I can remember being sad at school because I wasn’t at the store."
— June Rauch Bierman
Milestones That Shaped Us
July 20, 1960
Art & Barbara purchase the store—official founding of Rauch's Jewelry.
2015
Generational transition: June takes ownership with family support.
Recent Years
GIA accreditation, custom CAD designs, online presence, and a charming gift shop in the back.
2025
Celebrating 66 Years of timeless service!
Today: Craftsmanship Meets Community
Step inside our historic vault-lined space, and you'll find antique treasures like a 1930s radio, vintage cash register, and our hand-crafted bow-making machine—still in use! We specialize in watch & clock repairs, bridal jewelry, custom designs, and unique gifts. Every piece tells a story, just like ours.
As Newton's trusted jeweler in a town of 3,000, we cherish personalized service, quality you can feel, and the joy of creating forever memories.